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First gigs heading to the Scillies for World Pilot Gig Championships
7
Feb
2011
The first gigs involved in the World Pilot Gig Championships later this year are being loaded onto the Gry Maritha in Penzance next week bound for the Isles of Scilly.
On Monday 7 February the initial eight, including six belonging to Cornish teams, will be taken across the water to St Mary�s and over 100 gigs will be transported to the Scillies on board the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company�s freight vessel and passenger vessel Scillonian III, ahead of the first race.
The 22nd annual World Pilot Gig Championships are taking place on the Isles of Scilly from 29 April until 2 May, sponsored and supported by the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company.
In the 21 years the World Pilot Gig Championships have been taking place, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company has transported more than 1,000 gigs to and from the islands to take place in the world famous event.
The competition has gone from strength to strength, starting with just a few gigs to now more than 100 regularly taking part and attracting teams from around the world.
Jeff Marston, Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company said: �The Isles of Scilly Steamship Company has sponsored the World Pilot Gig Championships since its inception, and is extremely proud to have helped it evolve into the fantastic event it is today. The loading of the first gig is always an exciting time for all involved, and we wish all the competitors the best of luck in this year�s events.�
The four day event this year coincides with the Royal Wedding, but more competitors than ever are expected to attend. The Championships always attract large numbers of spectators, and a group of five experienced Dutch sea kayakers also intend to travel to the Islands on the Scillonian III and follow the races in their canoes.
The Championships are organised by a dedicated committee of volunteers, who give their time to plan, organise and promote the event, and have helped to turn the World Pilot Gig Championships into such a high profile event.
The support of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company has also been vital in getting gigs, competitors and supporters to the Scillies.
Rick Persich, Chairman of the World Pilot Gig Championships Committee commented: �The Committee is indebted to the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company for their continued sponsorship, strong support and encouragement, particularly during a year in which so many of their resources are taken up providing the freight capacity necessary for the build of the new school on Scilly.�
In addition to transporting the gigs, IoSSC support the event by offering special rates to competitors. More information can be found at www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk or by calling the Isles of Scilly Travel Centre on 0845 710 5555.
Ends
For more information contact:
Natalie Blachford
Deborah Clark Associates
01208 77900 / 07887 841595
[email protected]
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